- Must visit
Gutenberg Museum
One of the world’s most important museums of printing history, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg and early bookmaking. A flagship Mainz attraction with historic presses and notable Bible displays.
Cheapest price
$44
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
1 h 24 m
Average duration
1 h 35 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
141 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Mainz is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Mainz will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Mainz on Thu, Jun 04, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 04 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 1 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 24 m .
On Thu, Jun 04 the slowest trains will take 1 h 46 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
IC 1940
ICE 621 · ICE 1564
ICE 103 · ICE 1020
ICE 121 · S8
ICE 11 · S8
ICE 103 · ICE 1020
ICE 621 · ICE 1564
ICE 11 · S8
ICE 121 · S8
IC 1940Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Mainz among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $13.
Distance: 87 miles (141 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$42 Average price | $16 Average price Cheapest | $32 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 21m Average total duration Fastest 1h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 54m Average total duration 2h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Mainz:
A bus is $27 (€22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Mainz costing on average $42 (€34).
Other travel options to Mainz take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 24m.
You'll arrive about 15m sooner (1h 51m by train vs 2h 6m by car). Tickets start at around $42 (€34) compared to roughly $32 (€26) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Mainz trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 11 · S8 | On time 8:19 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h36 | 9:55 AM Mainz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
IC 1940 | On time 8:53 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h46 | 10:39 AM Mainz Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 103 · ICE 1020 | On time 8:54 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h24 | 10:18 AM Mainz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 121 · S8 | On time 9:18 AM Cologne Hbf | 1h37 | 10:55 AM Mainz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 621 · ICE 1564 | On time 9:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz | 1h30 | 11:15 AM Mainz Hbf | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Trains from Cologne to Mainz run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 (€11) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 1h 27m.
Distance 87 miles (141 km) |
Average train duration 1h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€11) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 27m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 5 days |
Discover the best of Mainz — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mainz trip today.
One of the world’s most important museums of printing history, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg and early bookmaking. A flagship Mainz attraction with historic presses and notable Bible displays.
Major state museum with archaeology, medieval art, Roman finds, and changing exhibitions. Strong choice for understanding Mainz and Rhineland-Palatinate history in one visit.
Archaeological museum focused on Roman navigation, best known for its preserved late Roman ships found in Mainz. Compact but distinctive and especially good for Roman-history fans.
Mainz’s old town is the best area for strolling, with historic lanes, squares, churches, and traditional architecture. It is the city’s core walking district and a must for first visits.
Central market square by the cathedral, surrounded by historic buildings and often lively with events and local activity. A natural starting point for exploring the center.
Charming old-town street known for its handsome facades and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. Popular for photos and one of the most pleasant streets to walk in Mainz.
A Rheinhessen cheese spread made with cream cheese, quark, paprika, and spices, traditionally served with pretzels. It is a classic Mainz wine tavern snack.
A famous regional trio of bread roll, sausage, and local wine that symbolizes everyday food culture in Mainz and the surrounding Rheinhessen region.
A sour milk cheese served with onions, vinegar, and oil. It is a traditional tavern dish in the Rhine-Main area, often enjoyed with bread and wine.
An established fine dining restaurant just outside central Mainz, recognized for refined cuisine, polished service, and a long-standing reputation.
A traditional Mainz wine tavern known for Rheinhessen specialties, local wines, and a cozy, classic Weinstube atmosphere.
A well-known restaurant in a historic former hospital building, offering regional German dishes, local wine, and an atmospheric vaulted interior.
Prices are moderate by German standards. Groceries and casual meals are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxi fares. Small tips are appreciated in cafes; not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Mainz Hbf, Mainz -> Schillerplatz, Mainz
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Mainz by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Mainz, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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